Residency – Riverhill Himalayan Gardens

I’ve just started my residency at the gorgeous Riverhill Himalayan Gardens which was bought by the Rogers family in 1840. John Rogers, a scientist and friend of Darwin’s was one of the first members of the Royal Horticultural Society and a patron of the plant collectors of the day, hence the astonishing array of trees and shrubs.

What I say about them

Thrilled to be invited to be their Poet in Residence. If you haven’t been to Riverhill, it’s a must. Check out their website and events programme to find out what you can be involved with this year – Easter egg hunts, craft workshops, dog walks, sculpture exhibitions. There are (obviously) a number poetry events, and ice creams and wonderful food in the café (a definite must). If you haven’t seen them on Country House Rescue, track down a copy, or better still find a date in your diary and come along.

What they say about me

Abegail will be a regular visitor to Riverhill, absorbing the atmosphere and watching how the gardens & its visitors change with the seasons. Her Poetry Residence will begin with a Haiku Challenge on 21st March, coinciding with World Poetry Day. We’ll invite you all to capture the spirit of Riverhill in 17 syllables, and we’ll share the results on Facebook and Twitter. Throughout the year Abegail’s monthly poems will be published on the Riverhill website, Facebook page and Twitter feed, for everyone to enjoy.

So get writing a Haiku and send it along. Even better visit the gardens. All details of events are here.

I am so pleased for you, Abi; & Riverhill has chosen wisely 🙂 This will be an exciting year for you, and the Gardens look like a very special place with an interesting history. I will follow as best as I can from on-line x